UK's Al Khaznah Leathers Teams Up With Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City to Aid Young Burn Survivors

Established in 2003 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, Al Khaznah Leathers (AKL) stands out as an innovator in eco-friendly leather production. In line with the Year of Community, AKL has partnered with Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC)—a leading medical facility in the UAE known for handling critical cases within the PureHealth network—to launch a touching project. This venture involves gifting custom-made camel leather tortoise toys to young burn victims at SSMC. These aren’t mere playthings; they serve as emblems of resilience and recovery, encapsulating stories of courage and hope during their healing process.

The hawksbill turtle, cherished in Emirati culture as an emblem of resilience and determination, embodies the strength of youthful survivors who surmount challenges and become even more robust. Each intricately crafted camel leather turtle signifies a child’s brave path towards recuperation and integration.

Every turtle stands for more than just a present; it carries a message of resilience, reminding us that despite all challenges, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel," stated Shamsa Muaid Al Ahbabi, who serves as both the Managing Director and CEO of Al Khaznah Leathers. "Our aim is for each child to experience being acknowledged, backed up, and woven into an overarching narrative of endurance and rejuvenation.

As part of this partnership, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) has introduced the Paediatric Burn Survivorship Programme, which represents significant progress in providing extended care for young burn victims. This initiative focuses on supporting children younger than 18 years old after they leave the Burn Centre as they work towards readjusting within their social environments.

Dr. Marwan Al Kaabi, CEO of SSMC, commented on the new initiative stating: "At SSMC, our aim is to revolutionise how we assist our patients throughout their complete healing process. The introduction of our new Paediatric Burns Survivorship Programme underscores our dedication to delivering holistic, patient-focused care that caters to their physical, emotional, and social needs across every phase of recuperation."

To cultivate a feeling of belonging and inclusiveness, the program establishes a secure and encouraging atmosphere where young burn victims can recount their journeys and encounters. Alongside our collaborators, we guarantee that each child has the opportunity to reconstruct their life with strength and fresh optimism, thereby establishing new benchmarks for comprehensive recovery.

Already designated as a Centre of Excellence for burns care by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.

Leveraging this robust base, the updated initiative represents a notable progression from mere clinical care, providing an integrated strategy that merges physical therapy with psychological backing, social involvement, and competency development. This aims to invigorate young victims, boosting their self-assurance and fostering growth past their traumas. Individuals can access these services throughout their recovery journey at their discretion.

In contrast to conventional rehabilitation approaches, this survivorship program prioritises peer support, education, athletics, and social interaction for young burn victims. It creates an environment where these children can openly discuss their challenges, acquire effective coping mechanisms, and foster a healthy sense of self through interactions with others facing similar circumstances. Tailored to meet the specific needs of both the children and their families, the initiative offers sustained help throughout every stage of recuperation and societal reintegration.